Archibald Prize 2025

Geelong Gallery is delighted to be the exclusive Victorian venue for the Archibald Prize 2025 from 30 August to 9 November.

The annual Archibald Prize is eagerly anticipated by artists and audiences alike. Judged by the trustees of the Art Gallery of NSW, the Prize is awarded to the best portrait painting. Since 1921, the Archibald Prize has highlighted figures from all walks of life, from famous faces to local heroes, reflecting the stories of our times.

Jason Smith, Director & CEO, Geelong Gallery said: ‘Geelong Gallery is delighted to present the Archibald Prize 2025 to Victorian audiences’ with an extended 71-day presentation anticipated to attract greater visitor numbers than the 75,000 who attended in 2018.

Geelong Gallery is the first tour venue following the Art Gallery of NSW’s presentation of Archibald Prize 2025 from 10 May to 17 August 2025.

There is a strong local connection between Geelong and the Archibald Prize. JF Archibald was born in Geelong West on 14 January 1856 and lived in the region, beginning his journalism career in Warrnambool when he was 15 years old.

The Archibald Prize has always created controversy and conversation. For over a century, artists from Australia and New Zealand have captured the spirit of their times through portraiture, reflecting the personalities and issues that define their communities.

We look forward to presenting a complementary program of public events and learning opportunities designed to engage and inspire our diverse audiences.

Please stay tuned for a further announcement about ticket sales in early 2025.

-ENDS-